The Ath Pahariya Rai of Nepal

The Ath Pahariya Rai of Nepal

Introduction

Nepal, a small kingdom at the foot of the Himalayas, between India and Tibet, is home to approximately 400 ethnic groups, each having a different language or dialect. Their religious beliefs are equally distinct.

The Ath Pahariya Rai of Nepal

The Athpare Rai are part of a cluster of people known as the Rais, the largest group in eastern Nepal. The diverse groups in the cluster all speak various dialects from which most of these groups take their names. Although their facial features are clearly Mongoloid, the Athpare claim no relation to the Mongolian race. Instead, they believe they are descendants of the goddesses Marema, Mahadeva, and Nina, (daughter of the earth). Although the country is poor and undeveloped, the people of Nepal are dependent upon agriculture for their livelihood. The Athpare Rai are primarily rice farmers, but the men do have a tradition of migrating to the cities for work.

As farmers, the Athpare Rai have been limited by insufficient knowledge of technology, causing a poor yield in crops. They grow rice in the low-lying areas and potatoes, maize, wheat, and barley at higher altitudes. A beverage made from the barley and potatoes is used on all festive occasions. It is the men's job to plow the fields, while the women plant the seeds. Families often unite to help each other at harvest time. Farmers trade any surplus crops they may have for needed items such as kerosene and salt. Others supplement their often meager incomes through craftwork and tailoring.

Collectively, the Rai are known as very courageous, daring, and fearless people. In recent history they have won worldwide reputation for their bravery as "Gurkhas" in the Royal Nepalese Army. This means that they are considered to be among the finest soldiers in the world. Joining the army brings respect and a way out of economic hardship. Like other Rai groups, the Athpare Rai live in one or two-storied wooden or stone houses with thatched roofs. The houses usually have a wooden porch.

Marriages are facilitated by kongpi, or middlemen, who are used by the families to work out the details of the marriage. Gifts are presented and if accepted, a marriage date will be set. Some marriages are still expedited by the arranged kidnapping of the girl of one's choice, as it is believed that this method brings about good results. The sacrifice of an animal, usually a pig or rooster, is often performed at this time. Marriages are very festive occasions and meat and drinks are served in abundance. Gifts are given to the parents of the bride and groom as well as to a long line of family members and village elders. Often the whole night is spent singing and celebrating.

Although the royal family of Nepal is Hindu, as is 90% of the population, Hinduism and Buddhism exist side by side and are somewhat intermingled. The majority of Athpare Rai are Hindus but there are a number of Buddhists and some animal ...